1 I have a message from God in my heart
concerning the sinfulness of the wicked
There is no fear of God
before their eyes.
2 In their own eyes they flatter themselves
too much to detect or hate their sin.
3 The words of their mouths are wicked and deceitful;
they fail to act wisely or do good.
4 Even on their beds they plot evil;
they commit themselves to a sinful course
and do not reject what is wrong.
5 Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
6 Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
7 How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
8 They feast on the abundance of your house;
you give them drink from your river of delights.
9 For with you is the fountain of life;
in your light we see light.
10 Continue your love to those who know you,
your righteousness to the upright in heart.
11 May the foot of the proud not come against me,
nor the hand of the wicked drive me away.
12 See how the evildoers lie fallen—
thrown down, not able to rise!
~ Psalm 36
Key Verse: “For in his own eyes he flatters himself too much to detect or hate his sin.” Psalm 36:2
The fear of God leads marital conflict into harmony and peace. The fear of God maintains integrity while filing taxes. The fear of God prevents worship from becoming stale. The fear of God brings health to your soul. The fear of God raises your awareness of sin so you can repent. The fear of God is wisdom in a culture that is morally bankrupt. It is foolish not to fear the Lord.
Pride, however, is not interested in respecting God. Pride is busy with false flattery. Pride fails to detect any sin. Pride ruins your sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Pride no longer hates sin but invites rebellion. Pride is a deceptive garment that covers a sick heart. Selfish pride is the opposite of walking humbly with God. Pride ignores blind spots, despises correction, and rationalizes destructive habits. God will reveal what is real and guide you into freedom when you choose to fear Him.
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